The Pelicans Have Fired Head Coach Alvin Gentry

Alvin Gentry has been fired by the New Orleans Pelicans, as reported by ESPN. The decision comes just days after they were eliminated from playoff contention. While in the bubble, the Pelicans had an abysmal record of 2-6 ending on a three-game losing streak. Gentry ends his five-season stint with an under .500 winning percentage (175-225). 

Gentry has been the head coach of the Pelicans since 2015. During his tenure, he only made the playoffs once in 2017 where they would lose in the Western Conference Semifinals. The season was also his highest winning total there as well (won 48 games). Since then, the Pelicans have been on a downward spiral. 

Stars such as Demarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis became unhappy with the team’s play and ventured off to new destinations. Although Gentry struggled to get wins during the 2019 season, the front office decided to stick with him for a while. New Orleans exercised their team option on Gentry last offseason through the 2020-21 season. 

With young rising stars such as Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, New Orleans looked to be going in the right direction. Gentry looked forward to the challenge and righting the ship. However, Gentry is gone now and the Pelicans are looking forward to a new coaching era with a new squad.

As for new coaching options, names such as Tyronn Lue and  Jason Kidd have appeared to be the front runners for the job. Both coaches have had successful seasons and playoffs appearances during their tenures in the league. Stay tuned for more details regarding their coaching search.